‘Iron Lady’ was friend to America

April 12, 2013

A fter some initial unpleasantness between us, Americans and Britons have enjoyed a deep friendship and an unshakeable alliance. Today, then, thoughtful people in this country join our cousins "across the pond" in mourning the death of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.

Known as "The Iron Lady," Thatcher helped lead her nation back from the brink of ruin due to misguided socialist policies. Prime minister from 1979-90, she left Great Britain's economy stronger than when she ascended to power. Thatcher "did not just lead our country. She saved our country," said Prime Minister David Cameron.

Her personal bond with the late U.S. President Ronald Reagan was important to both countries. Both made it clear that if the other required support on the diplomatic - or military - stages, it would be there for the asking.

Few national leaders truly merit being described as "great." Thatcher did. Her nation - and ours - are better because of her.

---

MTV television network officials have suspended work on the upcoming season of the "reality" show "Buckwild." Good. Let's hope they think about the message being sent by the program.

"Buckwild," focusing on the lives of several devil-may-care young West Virginians, was a hit during its first short season. But since then, one cast member has been arrested for drug distribution, another has been charged with driving under the influence and a third, Shain Gandee, has died in a tragic accident.

Television always tends to blur the line between reality and make-believe. But there is evidence the new wave of "reality" shows takes that a step further. After all, if real people on the programs can get away with the dangerous stunts portrayed, why not viewers?

Is there a link between appearing on "Buckwild" and the trouble and tragedies experienced by some of its cast members? We honestly don't know. In all likelihood, neither do MTV officials. More important, do shows such as "Buckwild" encourage dangerous behavior by some viewers?

Those are questions MTV officials should consider before resuming work on "Buckwild."